Coin controlled selecting mechanism



July 28, 1931. c. w. COONES 1,815,278

COIN CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Filed Aug. 26. 1929 a Sheets-Sheet 1 A a/ M ui-m!! 11]! (so g ul- IN VENTOR 671 W6 8 v ares 063:?

A TTORNE y July 28, 1931.

COIN

INVENTOR 6 50/76! W 600mm B Q A T'TQRNEY July 28, 1931. c, w, CQON'ES 1,816,278

com CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Fiied Aug. 26, 1929 a Sheets-Sheet s INVENTOR July28, 1931'. c. w. cooNEs 1,815,278 'COIN CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Filed Aug. 26, 1929 8 sheets-i sa 4 A TTORNE y July 28,1931. c. w. COONES' 1,816,278

COIN CQNTROLLED SELECTING -MECHANI SM Fi1ed.Aug. 26. 1929 a Sheets-Sheet 5 se d-5 4 100 10.3 7 i INVENTOR A TTORNEY July 28, 1931. c. w. COONES COIN CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Filed'Aug. 26, 1929 8 Sheets-Sheet 6 1 VENTOR W W600 A TTORNE I July 28; 1931. I c. w. COCDINES 1,816,278

com CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Filed Aug. 26, 1929 a Sheets-Sheet 7 ruin-""1"",

ENTOR 6770x7 5 W w s A rroklvzy July 28, 1931. c. w. COONES' COIN CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Filed Au 26, 1929 8 Sheets-Sheet 8 aa da J55 14/ 35* a 38 [NV NTOR A TTORA E Y Patented July 28, 193 1 UNITED STATES,

PATENT OFFICE CHARLES w. COONES, or sex mam, CALIFORNIA COIN CONTROLLED SELECTING MECHANISM Application fledjug'ut 28, 1929. 81:51:11 280. 388,507.

My invention relates to andhas for a'pur- 1 pose the provision of a selecting mechanism. which is preferably coin operated in such;v manner as to be capable of influencing any.

one of a plurality of electrical circuits for controlling various instrumentalities such as dispensing mechanisms of article containing magazines and change making machinesfor example, upon the depositing of a coin or coins of denominations having a total value corresponding to that predetermined for the influencing of a particular circuit. In the use of my selecting mechanism in conjunction with dispensing mechanisms of magazines in vwhich articlesto be vended are stored. my mechanism can lie-employed to complete electrical circuits for actuating any one of the dispensing mechanisms to cause an article tobe dispensed from the respective magazine,'only after a coin or coins having a total value corresponding to the price at which the articular article selected is to be sold, have een deposited.

It is a further purpose of my invention to provide a selecting mechanism of the above 7 described character which embodies means for preventing an unscrupulous person from effecting the return of deposited coins after the mechanism has been rendered active to complete a selected electrical circuit, and yet permit the return of the deposited coins prior to'the completion of the selected circuit.

I will describe only one form of coin con-: trolled selecting mechanism embodying my invention and will then point out the novel features thereof in claims.

In the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 is a view showing in front elevation one form of coin controlled selecting mechanism embodying my invention. 7

Figure 2 is a view of the mechanism in front elevation partly broken away and with a front plate embodied in the mechanism, removed.

-Figure 3 is a view of the mechanism in rear elevation partly'broken away for the sake of clearness; W Figure 4 is a-plan view of the mechanism partly broken :away for the sake of clearness.

I Figure 5 is a view of the mechanism in side elevation partly broken away.

Figure 6 is avertical sectional view taken .on the line e-e of Figure 1, and looking in the direction of the arrows, with the mech-' anism occupying its normal position.

Figures 8 and 9 are fragmentary vertical sectional views similar to Figure 6 and illustrating different posit-ions occupied by the mechanism. and

Figure .10 is a 'fragmentary vertical sec-" tional view taken on the line 10,-1O of Figure 6 and looking in the direction of the arrows, I 7

Referring specifically to the drawings in similar parts. in each of the several views, my

invention in its present embodiment comprises a frame F composed; of two metallic rings 10 and 11 supported'tin side by side spaced relationby a plurality of cross bars 12 spanning the rings transversely at equally spaced intervals around the latter and seof the latter.

Journaled in the channel member 13 and L shaped member 14 is a shaft S composed of a tubular section 18 telescopically receiving a solid section 19, the section 18 having a-longitudinal slot 20 receiving the pro ecting ends of a pin 21 extending diametrically through the solid section 1950 as to operatively connect the two sections for rotation as a unit by means of a knob 22 fixed to the outer end of the section 18 which extends. axially through the front plate 15, all asshown in Fi are 6.

The slot and pin connection between the two shaft sections, while operativelyconnectmg them for rotation as a unit, permits relative which similar reference characters designate sliding movement of the section 18 axially of the section 19 for a purpose to be hereinafter described.

Fixed to the shaft section 19 is a hub 23, which through the medium of spokes 24 supports concentrically of the axis of the shaft S within the frame F, for rotation by the shaft, a drum D in the form of an open ended cylinder preferably of sheet metal, normally urged to the position shown in Figure 6 by means of a coil spring 25 surrounding the shaft section 19 and interposed between washers 26 and 27 respectively abutting the channel member 13 and a pin 28 carried by the shaft section 19.

In its normal osition shown in Figure 1, the drum D is a apted to be latched against rotation in any one of a multiplicity of circumferentially adjusted positions to which it may be'mov'ed by the knob 22, and to this end a gravity latch 29 is pivoted at 30 to an ear 3] projecting from one of the cross bars 12, and is adapted to enter any one of a multiplicity of notches 32 formed at equally spaced intervals circumferentially, in one end edge of the drum D. However, when the drum is moved laterally from the position shown in Figure 6 to that shown in Figure 7 by exerting a pull upon the knob 22 against the action of the spring 25, the latch 29 clears Lhe grum and permits rotation thereof by the To that end of the drum confronting the front late 15 is secured concentrically of the shaft gby brackets 33 and fastening members 34, a dial 35 in the form of a metallic ring having on its front side a multiplicity of equally spaced radial graduations 36, each of which is preferably provided with a different numeral as shown in Figure 2, which numeral for the purpose of explaining one use of my invention, is intended to be correlated with a particular article of merchandise which a customer desires to purchase. Upon rotation of the drum 1), each of the graduations 36 with its respective numeral is adapted to be viewed singly through a sight opening 37 formed in the front plate 15, and any one of the graduations is adapted to be alined with a pair of radially alined indexing projections 37 extending into the sight opening as shown in Figure 3.

The drum D broadly constiutes a support for control elements C, and to this end periphery of the drum D is provided with several circular series of threaded openings into any of which the control elements C, in the present instance in the form of headed screws, are adapted to be threaded and detachably secured so as to project radially inward of the drum. In the present instance nine series of openings are shown and are designated by the numerals 38, 38, 38", 38 38, 38, 38, 38 and 38*, the several series of openings extending circumferentially of the drum and equally spaced from each other as will be clear from a consideration of Figure 6. In the present instance the number of openings in each circular series is one hundred and fifty which corresponds to the number of graduations 36 on the dial 35, and the openings of the several circular series are alined with each other in a direction parallel to the axis of the drum so as to provide a row of openings (nine in number) for each gradnation 36 on the dial 35.

The openings of each circular series are intended to represent various values or coin denominations; and for the purpose of exlanation it will be assumed that the openlugs 38 represent a half dollar valuation, the openings 38 a quarter, the openings 38 and 38, each' a dime, the openings 38 a nickel and the openings 38, 38', 38 and 38, each a cent so that the 1K. tat value represented by each row of openings 38 .to 38" inclusive is $1.04. The control'ele'ments C when applied to any of the openings 38 to 38' of each row broadly constitute a means for selectively actuating any one or more of a plurality of latching mechanisms to be now described.

Supported from the L-shaped member 14 by a U-shaped frame 39 (see Figure 3) and a pair of curved members 40 are a pair of plates 41 disposed parallel to the axis of the drum D immediately within its inner periphery at the top of the drum as shown in Figures 3 and 6. The plates 41 are spaced apart sufficiently to receive the control elements C on the drum, freely for sliding movement between the plates when the drum is moved laterally from the position shown in Figure 6 to that shown in Figure 7 or vice versa; and the control elements are adapted to pass through notches 42 in the plates when the drum occupies the dialing position shown in Figure 7 so as to permit free and unrestricted rotation of the drum as in this position the latter is clear of the latch 29.

Fixed to rock shafts 43 journalecl in the plates 41 are normally upstanding fingers 44' disposed between the plates, there being one rock shaft and fingers for each of the nine circular series of openings 38 to 38 inclusive in the drum, so that nine rock shafts with a finger fixed to each, are provided, and are spaced apart from each other a distance corresponding to the distance between the openings of adjacent series.

To each rock shaft 43 is fixed at one side or the other of the plates 41 an arm 45 to which one end of a link 46 is connected. The,

I f, i

To each lever 47 is pivotally connected at 50 the upper end of a depending link 51; and the lower end of each link 51 is pivotallyconnected to a pawl 52. The pawls 52 are all pivotally mounted side by side in definite spaced relation on a shaft 53 journaled at its ends in a pair of supporting arms 54 secured to the L shaped frame member 14, and when the fingers 44 occupy the normal unstanding position shown in Figure 6, the pawls 52 oocupy the non-latching position shown in this figure, with respect to notches 55 formed in a reciprocable carriage 56 having extensions 57 at its ends, slidable in slots 58 formed in rack plates 59 slidably mounted in slots 60 provided in the supporting arms 54, so as to mount the carriage for sliding movement parallel to the axis of the shaft S. The extensions 57 and the slots 58 in the rack plates provide a lost motion 0 erative connection between purpose to the latter and t e carriage for a be hereinafter described.

' The carriage is operatively connected to the tubular shaft section 18 for actuation .by the latter, by means of an L shaped arm 61 secured to the carriage and having a yoke 62 received in an annular groove 63 of a collar '64 fixed by a set screw 64* to the tubular sec tion 18 so as to permit rotation of the latter.

A pair of coil springs-65 connected to ears 66 on the rack plates 59 and to the L shaped frame member 14 urge the carriage when occupying the one extreme position shown in Figure 9 to its intermediate position shown in Figure 6. The drum D is adapted to be latched in the dialing position shown in Fig ure 7 against the normal tendency of the spring 25 to move it to the normal position shown inv Fi ure 6 by means of a latching member 67 pivoted at 68 on the carriage 56 and normally urged upwardly bya spring 69 bearing against the tubular shaft section .18; the latching member 67 extending through a slot 70 formed in a keeper plate 71 secured to the L shaped member 14, and through a slot 72 in the front plate 15. The latching member is provided with a notch 73, which in the dialing position of the drum shown in Figure 7, co-acts with a wall of-the keeper plate 71 under theurging action of the spring 69, to latch the drum against movement to its normal position shown in Figure 6. However, by manuall depressing the exposed portion of the late ing member sufficiently to clear the notch 7 3 from the keeper plate, the carriage will be restored to its normal position under the action of the spring 25.

The carriage 56 is provided with a row of coin receiving slots 74 which extend through the carriage vertically and correspond in number to, as well as are alined with, the pawls 52 so that nine'coin receiving slots are provided in the carriage inside by side rela-' tion. It is to be noted that although the notches 55 extend into the respective coin receiving slots 74, they are of greater width.

than the latter as are the pawls 52, so that the pa'wls, when in latchingposition, can coact with the inner ends of the notches onopposite sides of the slots 74, to latch the carriage. It will be further notedthat with the carriage occupying its intermediate position and a pawl 52 occupying its latching purpose of permitting a coin in the res'pective slot 74 to strike and cam the pawl upwardl to'its non-latching position during such limited movement of the carriage. I For each coin receiving slot 74 an upper coin chute 75 is provided, and the nine chutes 75 are supported in side by side spaced relation by frame members 76 and 77 supported from the frame F. At their entrance ends the chutes 75 are U shaped in cross section and xterminate at the front plate 15.

Formed in the front plate 15 immediately above and alined with the chutes 75 are coin receiving openings 78 through which coins are adapted to be deposited into the chutes. Below each coin receiving opening 78 is indicia 79 (see Fi ure 1.) on the front plate 14, designating't e proper denomination of coin7to be deposited in each particular openin 8. N

Ihe openings 78 are normally closed by doors 80 pivoted at 81 on the front plate 15; and to an extension 82 on each door is pivotally connected one end of a link 83, the other end of which is pivotally connected at 83 to one of the triangular shaped levers 47 for movement of the respective door 80 by the lever from the closed position shown in Figure 6 to the open position shown in Figure 8 when the respective finger 44 is rocked by a control element C from its normal upstanding position shown in Figure 6 to that shown in Figure 8. In order to prevent damage to the mechanism as a result of forcibly closing the doors 80, each link 83 is composed of two telescopically associated sections 84 and 85 which are extnsibly and yieldingly connected for a limited relative-movement by a pin 86 on one section-working in a longitudinal slot 87 in the other section; with a coil spring 88 interposed between the'pin 86 and an annular shoulder 89formed on said other. section. The spring 88 is of suflicient strength to provide a practically solid connection between the seetions 84 and 85 when the corresponding triangular shaped lever 47 is rocked in a direction to open the respective door 80, yet yields in the event that the door is forcibly closed so as to prevent transmission of the doors movement to the lever 47.

When the carriage 56 occupies the normal intermediate position shown in Figures 6 and 8 its coin receiving slots 74 register with the Figure 9, the slots 74 will register with the upper and entrance ends of lower coin chutes 92 so that the coins in the slots 74 will clear the stop member 91 and will be free to traverse the chutes 92 under the action of gravity,

and to discharge from the chutes into a coin box 93, through slots 94 formed in the riphery of the drum D. However, should the carriage be moved forwardly from the intermediate position shown in Figure 6 to the extreme forward position shown in Figure 7, any coins in the slots 74 of the carriage will clear the stop member 91 and be free to dis- 7 charge into a return chute 95 and thence into a cup 96 mounted in an opening 97 formed in the frontplate 15, so that the coins will be returned to the customer.

It will be noted from Figure 4 that the coin receiving slots 74 are of various lengths and widths suchas to freely receive coins of the particular denominations intended for each of the slots, and that the notches 90 in the stop member 91 are of various depths such as to support coins of the proper denomination intended for the respective slots 74, all with their upper edges at one and the same level, for camming by the coins, of the respective awls' 52 from the latching position shown in i ure 8 to the non-latching position shown in igure 9, vwhen rearward movement of the carriage from the former to the latter posit1on is initiated, so as to permit the movement of the carriage to the extreme rearward posit1on shown in Figure 9, to be effected. Should a coin ofsmaller size than that intended for the respective slot 74 of the carriage, be deposited therein, it will be supported by the respective notch 90 at a level lower than that necessary for the coin to cam the respective pawl 52 upwardly to non-latching position,

so that the carriage will remain latched by the pawl, and thus positively prevent com pletion of the rearward movement 01' the carriage from the intermediate position shown in Figure 8 to the extreme rearward position shown in Figure 9.

In the present instance the coin operated selecting mechanism thus far described is intended to control electrical circuits which may in one use of my invention, control mechanisms (not shown) for dispensing articles frommagazines (not shown) for delivery of the articles to the customer who has deposited coins of the roper denominations in the machine. For t is purpose, I provide supported concentrically of the drum by fastening members 99 threaded into blocks of insulating material 100 which are interposedbetween the ring 98 and the cross bars 12 soas to secure the ring to, yet insulate it from, the cross bars.

Secured to and insulated from the ring are contacts 101-whichextend in a circular series on the ring in equally spaced relation to each other and project from the inner eriphery of the ring for engagement singly by a spring contact member 102 fixed to and insulated from the drum as shown in Figure 6. The contacts 101 correspond in number to the number of graduations 36 on the dial 35 so that one hundred and fifty contacts are provided, which number corresponds to the number of openings in any one of the circular series of openings 38, 38*, etc.

To each contact-101 is connected a conductor 103 (of which only one is shown in Figure 6) and leading to the dispensing mechanism of each article storing magazine above referred to and not shown, there thus being one magazine with its dispensing mechanism for each of the contacts 101. From the dispensing imechanism of each magazine leads a conductor 104 of which one only is shown for the purpose of illustration in Figure 6. The conductors 104 are connected to one side of a battery 105, and from the other side of the battery leads a conductor 106 connected by a binding post 107 to a' collector rin 108 su ported concentrically of the shaft g by a disk 109 of insulating material, fixed to the channel member 13 of the frame F.

A U shaped bracket 1-10 is secured by fastening members -*-111 to the hub 23 for rotation with the drum, and mounted on and insulated from the bracket 110 is a brush 112 which is constantly urged by a spring 113 into electrical contact with the collector ring 108. From the brush 112 leads a flexible conductor 114 which is connected to a contact 115 of a quick acting master switch M, the contact 115 being supported on a block 116 of insulating material fixedly secured to the bracket 110. The bracket 110 is provided with an extension 117 on which is pivotally mounted at 118 and insulated therefrom, a contact arm 119 -co-acting with the contact 115 to form the master switch M. To the contact arm '119 is electrically connected, a conductor 120 which leads to'and is electrically connected to the spring contact member 102 on the drum D as shown in Figure 6.

A spring 121 connects the contact arm 119 with the tubular shaft section' 18 by means of a block-of insulatin material 122 and a fastening member 123 or securing the latter to shown in Figure 6 to that shown in Figure 9 or vice versa.

When the contact arm 119 engages the contact 115, and one of the contacts 101 of the ring 98 is engaged by the spring contact member 102, a circuit is completed to'actuate the dispensing mechanism of the particular magazine correlated with the particularnu: meral on the dial 35 displayed in the sight opening 37 on the front plate 15.

The operation of the machine is as follows For the purpose of explanation, it has been deemed necessary to show control elements C- applied to but one opening in each of the circular series of openings 38 and 38 in the drum D, although it will be understood that in practice a multiplicity of control element-s C will be provided and will be applied td selected openings of the series 38 to 38 dependingon the price of the particular articlewith which the control elements are intended to be associated. In the present instance I have illustrated two control elements C, one applied to an opening of the circular series 38 and representing a coin value of five cents, and the other applied to an alined opening of the circular series 38 and repr es'enting a coin value of one cent so that the total coin value represented by the two alined control elements C is'six cents which is in the present instance the price of an article stored in the particular magazine correlated with the numeral 59 on the dial 35.

Let it be assumed that the machine is set into and supported in a wall of a store with the front plate 15 flush with the wall, and that the moving parts of the mechanism occupy the position shown in Figure 6 wherein the drum D is latched against rotation by the gravity latch 29 engaging within one of the" notches 32 of the drum. A customer desiring to purchase articles first grasps the knob 22 and exerts a pull thereupon sufiicient to move the drum axially, from the normal position shown in Figure, 6 to the dialing position shown in Figure 7, through the medium of the pin 21 of the shaft section 19 abutting one end of the slot 20 in the shaft section 18. The

drum now clears the latch 29 and is latched in its dialing position by the latching member 67. The carriage 56 is moved with the drum by the co-action of the arm 61 and the collar 64 on the tubular shaft section 18,

and the drum is free to be rotated, as all control elements C applied to the openings 38 to 38 inclusive are alined with the notches 42 in the pair. of plates 41. The dial is now rotated by turning the knob 22 until the graduation 36 of one of the numerals on the dial 35 isalined with the indexing projections 37 in the sight opening 37. It is assumed for the purpose of illustration that the customer desires to purchase I an article designated by the number 59 on the dial 35, and the drum is therefore rotated to bringthe graduation 36 of this number in alinement with the indexing projections 37. The price of this article is assumed to be six cents, two control elements C on the drum, which. areillustrated in Figures 6 to 8 inclusive, and as before stated, represent a total coin value of six cents, occupy a position in the spacebetween the two plates 41 and immediately in advance of those two of the fingers 44 which control those two pawls 52 alined with the two coin receiving slots 74 in the carriage, intended toreceive a nickel and a cent respectively.

The latching member 67 is now depressed sufiiciently to be released from the keeper plate 71 thus permitting the drum D and hence the carriage 56 to return to the normal position shown in Figure 6 and also in F igure 8, under the action of the spring 25. During th'is movement of the drum, the two control elements C engage and rock the" two fingers 44 above referred to,rearwardly to the position shown in Figure 8 so as to cause the respective two pawls 5 to engage within the respective notches 55in the carriage thus latching the latter against movement from the position shown in Figure 8 to that shown in Figure 9, and thereby preventing closing of the master switch M. It will be noted that upon movement of the drum from the position shown in Figure- 7 to Figure 8, that the spring contact member 102 on the drum en gages one of thecontacts 101 on the ring 98, but that as the master switch is in open position, the circuit to actuate the dispensing mechanism of the magazine in which articles designated by the numeral 59 on the dial 35 are stored, has not been completed.

Upon rocking of the two fingers 44 to the position shown in Figure 8, the two corresponding doors 80 are moved to open position through the medium of their respective links 83, thus exposing the two coin receiv-' ing openings 78 in the front plate, into which a nickel and a cent respectively, are to be deposited. The customer now deposits a nickel and a cent into the two exposed openings 78, in accordance with the indicia 79 therebelow designating the values of these two coins. The deposited coins are free to gravitate into the two respective upper coin chutes 75. As the coin receiving slots 74 in the carriage register with the coin chutes 75,

the two deposited coins discharge into those two slots 74 with which are alined the-two pawls 52 previously moved to latching po-' sition, and the coins rest upon the stop member 91 within the proper notches 90 in the member.

Should the customer at this time desire that the deposited coins be returned for any be pulled forwardlyuntil the drum occupies into the return chute 95 and thence into the cup 96 for removal from the latter by the customer.

However, should the customer desire to purchase the intended article, the knob 22 is pushed inwardly from the position shown in Figure 8 towards that shown in Figure 9, and during the first portion of this movement the two coins in the slots 7 4 of the carriage, which project above the top of the carriage to one and the same predetermined level, strike and cam upwardly those two pawls 52 previously moved to latching position by their respective two fingers 44, thus releasing the carriage from the latching action of the pawls and permitting its continued rearward movement to the position shown in Figure 9 wherein the two coins clear the stop member 91 and are free to gravitate from the slots 74 into the two respective lower coin chutes 92 and thence discharge through the slots 94 into the coin boX- 93.

During the last portion of this movement of 7 the carriage the master switch M is caused to close under the action of the spring 121 inpassing a dead center position with respect to the pivot 118 of the contact arm 119, thus completing a circuit including the contact members 102 and the proper one of the contacts 101, to cause actuation of the dispensing mechanism of the magazine in which the article designated by the numeral 59 on the dial is stored. It will 'be understood that the dispensing mechanisms and magazines form no part of my present invention and that the spring contact member 102 on the drum and contacts 101 on the ring 98 can be employed in conjunction with the master switch M to control electrical circuits of any mstrumentalities desired.

It will be noted that the pin and slot connection between the shaft sections 18 and 19 permits movement of the carriage by the shaft section 18, from the intermediate position shown in Figure 8 to the extreme rearward position shown in Figure 9, independently of the shaft section 19 so that the position of the drum is not disturbed. Furthermore, it will be noted that each of the links 51 which connect the triangular shaped levers 47 to the pawls 52 is formed in two telescoping sections 124 and 125 so as to render the link'extensible, and that the sections are urged towards each other to the contracted position shown in Figure 6 by a spring 126 interposed between a pin 127 on one section and an annular shoulder 128 on the other section, so that the pawls 52 can be cammed upwardly by coins in the slots 74 of the carriage without actuating the respective fingers 44 which latter it will be remembered have been engaged and moved by those control elements C disposed in the space between-the plates 41.

After the carriage has been moved to the extreme rearward position shown in Figure 9 and the knob 22 is released, the springs 65 cause one end of the slots58 in the rack plates 59 to co-act with the extensions 57 on the carriage to restore the latter to the intermediate position shown in Figure 6 so that the mechanism is ready for a subsequent operation. The slots 58 in the rack plates 59 permit movement of the carriage from its extreme forward position shown in Figure 7 to its intermediate position shown in Figure 6, without placing the springs 65 under tension, as otherwise they would opposethe action of the spring 25 in normally urging the drum D to the normal position shown in Figure 6.

It is to be understood that when the drum D occupies the dialing position shown in Figure 7 the springs 126 are not under compression and thus do not normally urge the pawls 52 to latching position. The springs are only placed. under compression when the the mechanism will permit those previously operated fingers 44, pawls 52 and doors 80, to be restored by gravity to upright, unlatching and closed positions respectively, as illustrated in Figure 7.

It will be noted that the rack plates 59 are provided with vrack teeth 129 on the upper edges of the plates, with which pawls 130 pivoted at 131 on'the supporting arms 54, and normally urged by springs 132 to a central and vertical position, co act to prevent movement of the carriage towards its forward extreme position shown in Figure 7 until after the complete rearward movement of the carriage from its intermediate position shown in Figure 8 to its extreme rearward position in Figure 9 has been effected, to thereby prevent an unscrupulous person by a rapid inward and outward movement of the knob 22, from obtaining the return of deposited coins once the master switch M has been closed.

Should coins of less diameter than'those intended, be deposited in the coin receiving openings 78 exposed by the opening of the doors 80, such coins when resting in the notches 90 of the stop member 91 will be supported at a level too low to actuate the pawls I 52, when in their latching'positions, thus preventing the movement of the carriage necessary to close the master switch M and thercb preventing the delivery of an article of iigher price than the value of the deposited coins.

From the y be manifest that I have provided a coin controlled selecting mechanism operable by the deposit of coins of predetermined denominations, to influence selected electrical circuits for controlling various instrumentalities, all in such manner as to effect the control of the selected circuit only by the deposit of a coin or coins of predetermined denominations.

Although I have herein shown and described only one form of coin controlled selecting mechanism embodying my invention, it is to be understood that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

I claim:

1. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots in which coins are adapted to be deposited for movement with the carriage, a plurality of latching mechanisms for the carriage, one for each of and correlated with the carriage slots, means for selectively actuating one or more of the latching mechanisms to cause the latter to latch the carriage against movement to a predetermined position, means by which coins deposited inv those carriageslots correlated with the latching mechanisms which have been actuated, will be caused to actuate the latter and release the carriage, in response to movement of the carriage towards said predeterminedposition, and meansfor affecting a predetermined instrumentality when the carriage is moved to said position.

2; A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support having control elements thereon, a movably mounted carriage having a coin slot therein, a latching mechanism for the carriage, means for mounting the support for rotary movement to correlate a selected control element thereon with the latching mechanism for actuation of the latter to latch the carriage, means for mounting the support for movement axially from one position to another to cause the selected control element to actuate the latchi mechanism and. efi'ect latchingof the carriage thereby, means for supporting a coin" dcposited'in the sot of the carriage in a position to actuate the latching mechanism and cause the latter to release the carriage, in response to movement of thecarriage towards a predetermined position, means for renderingactive a predetermined one of plurality of electrical circuits correlated wit the control elements, when the carriage is moved to foregoing description,- it will said predetermined position, means for actuthe support and moving the latter axially.

3. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support having control elements thereon in predetermined loca-.

tions, a movably mounted carriage having a plurality of com slots therein for receiving ating the carriage, and means for rotating coins of predetermined denominations, a plurality of latching mechanisms for. the carriage, one for each of and correlated with the coin. slots in the latter, means for mounting the support for rotary movement to correlate a selected control element thereon with a predetermined one of the latching mechanisms .for actuation thereof by the selected control element to latch the carriage, means, for mounting the support for movementiaxially from one position to another to cause the set- .lected control element to actuate the predetermined latching mechanism and effect latching of the carriage thereby, means for supporting a coin of a predetermined denomination deposited in that slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism which has been actuated by the selected-conh'ol element to latch the carriage. in a position for the coin to actuate the said latching mechanism and cause the latter to release the carriage in response to movement of the carriage towards a predetermined position,

means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical circuits when the carriage is moved to said predetermined position, and means for actuating the can fee riage and for rotating the support and moving the latter axially. y

4. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support having control elements thereon in predetermined locations, a movably mounted carriage having a plurality of coin slots therein for receiving coins of predetermined denominations, a plurality of latching mechanisms for the carriage, one for each of and correlated with the coin slots in the latter, means for mounting the support for rotary movement to correlate a selected control element thereon with a predetermined one of the latching mechanisms for actuation thereof by the selected control element to latch the carriage, means for mounting the support for movement axially from one'positionJto another to cause the selected control element to actuate the predetermined latching mechanism and eifect latching of the carriage thereby, means for supporting a coin of a predetermined denomination deposited in that slot of the carriage,

correlated with the latching mechanism which'has been actuated by the selected control element to latch the carriage, in a position for the coin to actuate the said latching mechanism and cause the later torelease the carriage in response to movement of the carriage towards a predetermined position,

means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical circuits when the carriage is moved to said predetermined position, and means for actuating the carriage for rotating thesupport and moving the latter axially, a plurality of coin chutes, one for each of the coin receiving slots of the carriage, doors normally closing the chutes and each of which is operatively connected to one of the latching mechanisms for movement thereby to open the respective coin chute for the insertion of a coin when the respective latching mechanism has been actuated to latch the carriage.

A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support mounted for rotary movement and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, a carriage mounted for movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position. mcans'for operatively connecting the carriage and support for movement of the carriage in response to axial movement of the support, to occupy its intermediate position and its one extreme position according as the support is moved axially to occupy its normal position or its dialing position, yet rendering the carriage movable from its mtermediate position to its second extreme position independently of the support, the carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots, a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots, for latching the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, the support having control elements thereon at such predetermined locations circumferentially and transversely and so correlated with the latching mechanisms as to cause a control element selected byrotating the support to a predetermined position, to actuate a predetermined latchin mechanism when the support is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal position, and latch the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting a coin deposited in that coin receivmg slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism which has been actuated by a control element to latch the carriage, in a position for the coin to actuate said latching mechanism and release the carriage therefrom for movement to its second extreme position, means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical cireuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme position, and means for actuating he support and carriage.

6. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support mounted for rotary movement and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, a carriage mounted for movement to occupy one extreme position,'an intermediate position and a second extreme position, means for operatively connecting the carriage and support for movement of the carriage in response to axial movement of the support, to occupy its intermediate position and its one extreme position according as the support is moved axially to occupy 1ts normal position or its dialing position, yet rendering the carriage movable from its ii-itermediate position to its second extreme position independently of the support, the carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots, a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots, for latching the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, the support having control elements thereon at such predetermined locations circumferentially and transversely and so correlated with the latching mechanisms as to cause a control element selected by rotating the support to a predetermined position, to actuate a predetermined latching mechanism when the support is moved axially from its dialing position to its'normal position, and latc1 the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting a coin deposited in that coin receiving slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism which has been actuated by a control element to latch the carria e, in a position for the coin to actuate said etching mechanism and release the carriage therefrom for movement to its second extreme position, means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical circuits when the carriage is moved to'its second extreme position, means for actuating the support and carriage, a plurality of coin chutes, one for each of the coiri receiving slots of the carriage, doors normally closing the coin chutes, and means for opening the door of that chute from which a coin deposited therein will be discharged into that coin receiving slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism actuated by a control element to latch the carriage. 7 A selecting mechanism of the characte described comprising a support mounted for rotary movement and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, a carriage mounted for movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position, means for operatively connecting the carriage and support for movement of the carriage in response to axial movement of the support, to occupy its intermediate position and its one extreme position according as the support is moved axially to occupy its normal position or its dialing position, yet rendering the carriage movable from its intermediate position to its second extreme position independently of the support, the carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots, a plurality of correlated with the coin receiving slots, for latching the carriage against movement to 'its second extreme position, 'the support having control elements thereon at such predetermined locations circumferentially and transversely, and socorrelated with the latching mechanisms as'to 'cause a control element selected by rotating the support to a predetermined position,- to actuate a predetermihed latching mechanism when the support is moved axially from its dialin position to its normal position, and late the carriage against movement to its second extreme positlon, means for supporting a coin deposited in that coin receiving slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism which has been actuated by a control element to latch the carriage, in a position for the coin to actuate said latching mechanism and release the carriage therefrom for movement to its second extreme position, means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical --circuitslwhen thecarriage is moved to its second extreme position, means for actuating the support and carriage, and means whereby a coin of less diameter than that intended to be received in each slot of the carriage will be rendered ineffective to unlatch the respective latching mechanism.

8. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support mounted for rotary movement and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, a carriage mounted for movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position, means for operatively connecting the carriage and support for movement of the carriage in response to axial movement of the sup-- port, to occupy its intermediate position and its one extreme position according as the support is moved axially to occupy its normal position or its dialing position, yet rendering the carriage movable from its intermediate-position to its second extreme position independently of the support, the car- Vriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots, a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots, for latching the carriage latching mechanism which has been acturiage, in a position for the coin to actuate said latching mechanism and release the carriage therefrom for movement to its second extreme position, means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical circuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme-position, means for actuating the support and carriage, a plurality of upper coin chutes one'for each of-the'carriage slots and positioned to discharge coins therefrom into the respective carriage slots when the carriage occupies its intermediate position, and a plurality'of lower coin chutes one for each of the carriage slots and positioned to receive coins discharging from the carriage slots when the carriage occupies itssecond extreme position.

9. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a support mounted for rotary movement and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, a carriage mounted for movement to occupyv one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position, means for operatively connecting the carriage and support for movement of the carriage in response to axial movement of the support, to occupy its intermediate position and its one extreme position according as the support is moved axially to-occupy its normal position or its dialing position, yet rendering the carriage movable from its intermediate position to its second extreme position independently of the support, the carriage havmg a plurality of coin receiving'slots, a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots, for latching the carriage against move ment to its second extreme position, the support having control elements thereon at such predetermined locations circumferentially and transversely and so correlated with'the latching mechanisms as to cause a control,ele-

carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting a coin ated by a control element to latch the carment selected by rotating the sup-port to a predeposited in that coin receiving slot of the carriage, correlated with the latching mechanism which has been actuated by a control element to latch the carriage, in a position for the coin to actuate said latching mechanism and release the carriage therefrom for movement to its second extreme position, means for rendering-active, a predetermined oneof a plurality of electrical circuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme position, means for actuating the support and carriage, a plurality of upper coin chutes one for each of the carriage slots and positioned to discharge coins therefrom into the respective carriae slots when the carriage occupies its interme iate. position, a plurality of lower coin chutes one for each of the carriage slots and positioned to receive coins discharging from the carriage slots when the carriage occupies its second extreme position, and a coin return chute positioned to receive coins discharging from the carriage slots when the carriage occupies its first extreme position.

10. A selecting mechanism of the character embodied in claim (3 wherein each latching mechanism comprises a rock shaft, 21 finger fixed to theshaft and adapted to be engaged and moved by a selected control element, a pawl movable to latching and non-latching positions with respect to the carriage, and means for operatively connecting the finger and pawl for movement of the latter to latching position in response to movement of the former by a control element.

11. A selecting mechanism of the character embodied in claim 6 wherein each latching mechanism com rises a rock shaft, a finger fixed to the sha t and adapted to be engaged and moved by a selected control element, a pawl movable to latching and non-latching positions with respect to the carriage, and means for operatively connecting the finger and pawl for movement of the latter to latching position in response to movementof the former by a control element, including means by which movement of the pawl from latching to non-latching position under the action of a coin can be effected without actuating the finger.

12. A selecting mechanismof the character described comprising a rotatable and axially movable support having control elements thereon arranged in rows circumferentially and at redetermined intervals transversely, a slida ly mounted carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots, a plurality of latching mechanisms one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots of the carriage, means for mounting the support for rotation to select a predetermined transverse row of control elements for actuation thereby of predetermined ones of the latching mechanisms, and for movement axially from a dialing position to a normal position to cause the predetermined ones of the latching mechanisms to be actuated by the selected control elements and latch the carriage, means for supporting coins deposited in those slots of the carriage, correlated with 'the latching mechanisms which have been actuatedto latch the carriage, in positions to actuate and unlatch said latching mechanisms from the carriage to permit movement of. the latter to a predetermined position, means .for rendering active a predetermined one of a plurality of electrical circuits,,correlated with the transverse rows of control elements, in response to movement of the car riage to said predetermined position, and means for actuating the carriage and for rotating and moving the support axially.

13. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a drum having control pins arranged at predetermined intervals circumferentially and transversely thereof, means for mounting the drum for rotation and for movement axially from a normal position to a dialing position, means for normally urging the drumaxially to its normal position, means for latching the drum against rotation in its normal position, means for latching the drum in its dialing position against axial movement, means for moving the drum axiallyto its dialing position and for rotating the drum to select predetermined control elements for use, a carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots therein and mounted for sliding movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position,,a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots of the carriage, means for operatively connecting 1 he carriage and drum for movement of the carriage to occupy its, intermediate position or its one extreme position according as the drum occupies its normal position or dialing position yet rendering the carriage movable to its second extreme position independently of axial movement of the drum, the latching mechanisms including fingers disposed to be actuated by predetermined control pins when the drum occupies a selected position of adjustment circumferentially and is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal position, to cause the respective latching mechanisms to latch the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting coins deposited in those slots of the carriage correlated with the latching mechanisms which are latching the carriage, in positions for the coins to actuate said latching mechanisms and release the carriage for movement to its second extreme position, and means for rendering active, a predetermined one of a plurality of circuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme position.

14. A selecting mechanism as embodied in claim 13 wherein said means for mounting the drum comprises a rotatable and slidable shaft section to which the drum is fixed, a second rotatable and slidable shaft section extensibly associated with the first shaft section and having an actuating knob, and a pin and slot connection between the shaft sections for connecting, the two for rotation and sliding movement of the first shaft section by the second shaft section yet permitting a limited sliding movement of the latter independent of the former, and said means for operatively connecting the carriage and drum comprising a collar fixed to thereof, means for mounting the drum for.

' the second shaft section, and yoke engaging the collar and secured to the carriage.

15. A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a drum having control pins arranged at predetermined intervals circumfere'ntially and transversely rotation and for movement axially from a normal position toa dialing position, means 1' or normally urging the drum axially to its normal position, means for latching the drum against rotation in its normal osition, means for latching the drum in its ialing position against axial movement, means for moving the drum axially to its dialing position and for rotatinglthe drum to select predeter: mined control elements for use, a carriage having a )lurality of coin receiving slots therein an mounted for sliding movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position, a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for each of and correlated with the coin receiving slots of the carriage, means for operatively connecting the carriage and drum "for movement of the carnage to occupy 1ts intermediate position orits one extreme position according as the drum occupies its normal position or dialing position yet rendering the carriage movable to its second extreme position independently of axial movement of t-heodrum, the latching mechanisms including fingers disposed to be actuated by predetermined control pins when the drum occupies a selected position of adjustment circumferentially and is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal position, to cause the respective latching mechanisms to latch the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting coins deposited in those slotsof the carriage correlated with the latching mechanisms which are latching the carriage, in positions for the coins to actuate said latching mechanisms and release the carriage for movement to its second extreme position, means whereby a coin of less diameter than that intended to he received in each slot of the carriage will be rendered ineffective to unlatch the respective latching mechanism, and means for rendering active a predetermined one of a plurality of circuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme posi- V tion. 4

16. A selecting mechanism of thecharacter described comprising-a drum having control pins arranged at predetermined intervals circumferentially and transversely thereof, means for mounting the drum for rotation and for movement axially from'a normal position to a dialing position, means for normally urging the drum axially to its normal position, means for latching the drum against rotation in its normal position, means for latching the drum in its dialing position against axial movement, means for.

moving the drum axially to its dialing position and for rotating the drum to select pre-. determined control elements for use, a carria'ge having a plurality of coin receiving.

slots therein and-mounted for sliding movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermedlate position and a second extreme position, a lurallty of latching mechanisms,

one for eaci of and correlated with the coin predetermined control pins when the drum occupies a selected position of adjustment circumferentially and is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal position, to cause the respective latching mechanisms to latch the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting coins deposited in those slots of the carriage correlated with the latching mechanisms which are latching the carriage, in positions for the'coins to actuate said latching mechanisms and release the carriage for movement to its second extreme position, a plurality of upper coin chutes, one for each of the carriage slots and positioned to discharge coins therefrom into the respective carriage slots when the carriage occupies its itermediate position, a plurality of lower coin chutes one ,for each of the carriage slots and positioned to receive coins discharging from the carriage slots when the carriage occupies V its'second extreme position, and means for rendering active a predetermined one of a plurality of circuits when the-carriage is moved to its second extreme position.

17 A selecting mechanism of the character described comprising a drum having 7 control pins arranged at predetermined intervals 'circumferentially and transversely thereof, means for mounting the drum for rotation and for movement axiallyfrom a normal position to a dialing position, means for normally urging the drum axially to its normal position, means for latching the drum a ainst rotation in its'normal position, means or latching the drum in its dialing position against axial movement, means for moving the drum axially to its dialing position and for rotating the drum to select predetermined control elements for use, a car riage having a'plurality of coin receiving slots therein and mounted for sliding movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermeddiate position and a second extreme position,

a plurality of latching mechanisms, one for their lengths rough when the drum occupies,

each of and correlated-with the coin receiving slots of the carriage, means for operatively connecting the carriage and drum for movement of the carriage to occupy its inter- 5 mediate position or its one extreme position according as the drum occupies its normal position or dialing position yet rendering the carriage movable to its second extreme position independently of axial movement of the drum, the latchin mechanisms including fingers disposed to e actuated by predetermined control ins when the drum occupies a selected position of adjustment circumferentially and is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal position, to cause the respective latching mechanisms to latch the carriage against movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting coins de osited in those slots of the carriage correliited with the latching mechanisms which are latching the carriage, in positions for the coins to actuate said latching mechanisms and release the carriage for movement to its second extreme position, a plurality of coin chutes, one for each of the coin receiving slots of the carriage, doors normally closing the coin chutes, means for opening the doors of those chutes from which coins deposited therein will be discharged into those carriage slots correlated with the particular latching mechanisms which are actuated by control pins to latch the carriage, and means for ren ering active a predetermined one of a plurality of circuits when the carriage is moved to its second extreme 'tion.

18. A selecting mechanism the character embodied in claim wherein each latching mechanism com rises a rock shaft, a finger fixed to the sha and adapted to be engaged and moved by a selected control element, a pawl movable to latching and nonlatching positions with respect to the carriage, means for operatively connectin the finger and pawl for movement of the atter to atehing position in response to movement of the former by a control element, including fimy which fiomnt of the pawll frofin to nontc position un er t e action of a coin can be efiected without actu- W ating the finger, and means for preventing rotational movement of the drum intermediate its normal and dialin positions, yet rendering the drum free toie rotated when in dialing ition, comprising a pair of aced apart p ates between which the contro pins are adapted to be interposed for sliding movement longitudinally thereof u n axi ment of the drum, the plates aving registering. notches at redetermined intervals along which the control pins are adapted to its dialing 'tlon.

19. A se acting mechanism ofthe character demribed com rising a drum having control pins arranged at predetermined intervals the drum axially to its dialing position an for rotating the drum to select pro-determined control elements for use, a carriage having a plurality of coin receiving slots therein and mounted'for sliding movement to occupy one extreme position, an intermediate position and a second extreme position, a plurality of latchin mechanisms, one for each of and correlate with the coin receiving slots of the carriage, means for operatively connecting the carriage and drum for movement 3 of the carriage to occupy its intermediate position or its one extreme position according as the drum occupies its normal position or dialin position yet rendering the carriage movab e to its second extreme position independently of axial movement of the drum, the latching mechanisms including fin ers disposed to be actuated by predetermined control pins when the drum occupies a selected position of adjustment circumferentially and is moved axially from its dialing position to its normal ition, to cause the respective latching mec anisms to latch the carriage inst movement to its second extreme position, means for supporting coins de 'ted in those slots of the carriage correlated with the latching mechanisms which are latching the carriage, in positions for the coins to actuate said latching mechanisms and release the carriage for movement to its second extreme position, and means for rendering active a predetermined one-of a plurality of electrical circuits correlated with the control pins, in response to movement of the carriage to its second extreme position, comprising a circular series of statlonar contacts, a contact member on the drum a apted to engage any one of the stationary contacts, and a master switch for closing the predetermined circuift tvlihen the contact member is e one o e stationa contacts.

a x eelecting mechanisrii of the character described comprising a carriage, a plurality of latchin mechanisms for t e carria e, means for se actively actuating any of t e latching mechanisms. to latch the carriage inst movement to a predetermined sitlon, the carriage having openings corre ated with the latching mechanisms and adapted to receive coins for releasing the latching mechanisms from the carria and means for affecting a predetermine one of a plurality of instrumentalities upon movement of the carriage to said ition.

; 21. In a ecting mechanism 'of the char- 

